Redknapp backs Benitez to win over Chelsea fans with Manchester City victory

Nov 23, 2012 11:25:00 AM

The appointment of the Spaniard has caused a few raised eyebrows among the Blues' faithful, but the former Tottenham boss believes he has the ability to reinvigorate their season

Harry Redknapp is convinced Rafael Benitez can alter the perception of some Chelsea supporters by guiding the club to a win against Manchester City on Sunday.

The former Liverpool chief was hired to replace Roberto Di Matteo less than 24 hours after the Italian was relieved of his duties following a 3-0 Champions League defeat against Juventus on Tuesday - much to the chagrin of the Stamford Bridge faithful.

Supporters remember the regular quarrels the 52-year-old had with ex-Blues boss Jose Mourinho and are yet to be convinced that he is a worthy successor to Di Matteo - who led them to Champions League glory just six months prior - but Redknapp has backed Benitez to reinvigorate their season with victory over the Premier League champions.

He told The Sun: "I know Benitez isn't a popular choice, but the ball’s in his court.

"I have always said the punters do not really care who's in charge, so long as the team is winning and the points are racking up. You could have Saddam Hussein in charge and if results went well they would be chanting his name.

"So Rafa has to start by beating City. If he does that, it'll be a different story."

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